THERE were a number of factors that contributed to the success of this year’s Mount Gambier Cup carnival, not the least being record prize money, record crowds and, of course, the Calcutta which is still being talked about.

The traditional Calcutta, sandwiched between the supporting events heats on the Friday and Sunday’s cup heats, also attracted a record crowd, which in turn led to record payouts to the purchasers of the Mount Gambier Cup final placegetters.